The western portion of the state is home to the district and town of Kona, which can be found to the south of Anaeho’omalu Bay.
It is a fantastic area that is just right for unwinding and getting away from it all.
It is possible to learn about the region’s history and culture at a number of historic and cultural sites, and there are several natural streams and beaches where one may unwind and play.
In addition, there is a myriad of methods by which one may partake in regional gastronomy, ranging from cuisine to coffee to cocktails to chocolate.
A remarkable experience is enhanced by the seas of Kona, which are known for their tranquility, clarity, and beauty.
Marine animals may be seen in their natural habitats as well as in institutions designed to preserve and conserve them.
You have the option of exploring the great outdoors or the waters.
You have the option of watching performances or looking through galleries.
This is a wonderful place to have a vacation, and the following is a list of the 26 most exciting activities that can be done in Kona, Hawaii.
What is Kona best known for?
Hulihe‘e Palace
The Hulihee Palace was built in 1838 and provides visitors with a look back into the monarchy period of Hawaii, which was when the state’s royal families resided throughout the 19th century.
The Victorian architectural style was chosen for the construction of the palace since it was intended to serve as a summer retreat.
In addition to its two beachfront lanais, six spacious rooms, and lovely surroundings, this property is entirely constructed from lava rock.
On Kailua Bay is where you’ll locate the historically significant site.
The Hulihe’e Palace has been restored to its former glory and now serves as one of the most popular examples of a museum-like tourist attraction in the whole city of Kona. The palace’s ornamentation, furnishings, and antiquities are both authentic and renovated, respectively.
The group known as the Daughters of Hawaii is in charge of running it.
The museum’s exhibitions include a wide variety of objects connected to the Hawaiian kings King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani as well as things that belonged to them. These include portraits, furniture made from koa wood, quilts, and other textiles.
The tours provide much more information on the many different royals that used to stroll these hallways in the past.
The afternoon at Hulihe’e Palace is a wonderful cultural event that takes place once a month at Hulihe’e Palace. It is one of the most lovely free things to do in the surrounding area and is hosted by the palace.
You’ll get the opportunity to see hula and mele dance performances up close and personal!
The venue is also home to a wide range of other forms of performing art, including the Hulihe’e Palace Band’s Hulihe’e Palace Concert, the intriguing Merry Monarchs Chorale, and the frequent presentations of local artist folk tunes.
Kona Farmers Market
The Kona Farmers Market is a wonderful place to get a taste of some of the finest that Hawaii has to offer in a variety of categories.
You will get the opportunity to interact with the people, fill up fresh food, sample a variety of the delicacies that the island is renowned for, and shop for a wide variety of handmade souvenirs and presents.
It is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable locations to visit, particularly if you are hungry, so be sure you get there if you are starving.
In the middle of the downtown area, you’ll find it just next to the public library.
Over forty different merchants set up shop at the Kona Farmers Market on each and every market day, which takes place every week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
On these days, the market is open from dawn to twilight, and it’s only a minute away from the beach, so it’s a wonderful spot to go for a walk to unwind and take in the scenery.
You will get the opportunity to sample delectable dishes such as mochi, mangoes, shaved ice, honey, flowers, bread, macadamia nuts, vibrant fruits that are unavailable anywhere else, and even the world-famous Kona coffee!
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation is a great way to get an understanding of one of Hawaii’s most important exports, coffee, and is a great place to do it.
The business is open every day of the week and provides free tours precisely on the hour as well as two times each week that are dedicated to Japanese culture-specific trips.
Plantation tours may be done in 4×4 cars, or you can take a nature walk through the fields of organic coffee instead. Both options are available for tours.
In addition, there are unique roast master experiences available, as well as excellent opportunities to see lava tubes, both of which are among the top things to do in Kona.
The Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation cultivates all of its coffee right there on the property.
You will be educated on all aspects of the growing, cultivating, and processing of coffee, and you will even get the opportunity to sample a variety of roasts and mixes produced by the firm.
The aforementioned two-hour-long “roast master” event gives participants the opportunity to get their hands dirty while gaining knowledge about bean selection and the roasting process and even trying their hand at parts of it themselves.
Coffee was introduced to this area for the first time in 1828, and since then, consumption of it has steadily increased.
The volcanic dirt that makes up the mineral-rich soil of the island provides an environment that is especially favorable for the development of this plant.
Don’t forget to pick up a bag of coffee on your way out — we have premium, decaf, espresso, private reserve, peaberry, and Vienna roast options, amongst many more!
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Are you looking for some exciting destinations that you may visit for a day trip by yourself?
Those who are interested in the history and culture of the area should make it a point to include the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park on their list of must-see destinations.
This gorgeous location, which is absolutely brimming with things to see, is the ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and travelers who want to get some sightseeing done since it is the perfect place to get away.
A fantastic place to get started is at the park’s visitors center, which can be found at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.
In this part, you will learn about the many hiking routes that are available in the region, including ones that will take you through all of the area’s ahupua’a, which are land divisions that stretch from mountain to sea, as well as several ancient petroglyphs and holy temples.
Some of them will provide you with insight into the ingenious and innovative engineering talents of the early settlers, especially those who created the many fish ponds that can be seen around the park.
At Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, visitors may participate in a wide variety of enjoyable activities.
Try your hand at snorkeling, go on a hike, unwind on the beach, and keep an eye out for local animals such as monk seals and sea turtles.
This National Historic Landmark is a representation of the spirit of the local people. It is a location of rejuvenation and spiritualism that was rescued thanks to the efforts of members of the community. The National Historic Landmark has a total area of 1,100 acres.
Magic Sands Beach Park
Magic Sands Beach Park is one of the top attractions in Kona for families, and it is highly recommended for families with younger children.
This tremendously popular spot is nothing short of gorgeous, situated on the outskirts of the town of Kailua-Kona. It provides the chance for numerous traditional beach activities, such as playing volleyball, swimming, and viewing stunning sunsets.
Even though it’s not the biggest beach out there, Magic Sands Beach Park is an excellent location to learn how to surf or bodyboard since the waves there are fantastic for beginners.
You can be confident that you are safe at all times since there are lifeguards stationed all around, and there are also contemporary showers and facilities, which allow for a more pleasant experience overall.
The origin of term “Magic Sands Beach Park” originates from something that is rather sinister.
Because of the huge waves that occur throughout the winter, the beach often vanishes entirely under the ocean, leaving behind just the lava rock that lies beneath it.
To everyone’s relief, the beach is completely risk-free and ideal for use throughout the day and during the warmer months of the year.
Kanaloa Octopus Farm
At this particular farm, the only reason any animals are ever bred is for the sake of repopulation, research, and hobbyists.
The majority of these initiatives, of course, are focused on conservation and releasing fish back into the ocean.
Because of the numerous breeding tanks, the facility is strategically located right on the beach so that it can continuously supply the tanks with clean saltwater that is pumped in straight from the ocean.
Kanaloa Octopus Farm offers guided tours that will educate visitors on the farming and growing of these animals. If you take one of these tours, you will learn all there is to know about the process.
You will learn a wealth of information about each different species if you visit this location.
During these visits, you won’t just get the ability to get to know the octopus on a more intimate level; in fact, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to feed them!
You will also gain knowledge about studies on aquaculture, conservation efforts, as well as the threats posed by overfishing and extinction that these creatures face.
If you keep your eyes peeled, you could see one of the cephalopods in the tank squirting some ink at one of the other inhabitants.
Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is a verdant and beautiful expanse of land that spans 70 acres.
It is home to one of the ecosystems that is most biodiverse in the whole globe, and it is filled nearly entirely with various kinds of plants that are endemic to the area.
The sanctuary is the only tropical cloud forest in the whole nation and is located at an elevation of more than 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) above sea level.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.
However, what exactly is a cloud forest?
These are basically forests that get the great majority of the precipitation they need from low-lying clouds, thick fog, and other types of weather that are typical in high altitudes. These conditions are ideal for forest growth.
This runs counter to the condition of the majority of normal rainforests, which get the majority of their moisture from precipitation.
The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is home to hundreds of different kinds of native plant life, including tree ferns that may grow up to 30 feet tall and more than 100 different kinds of bamboo.
Additionally, this is a protected habitat for a number of the island’s rarest and most endangered bird species.
The region is densely populated with miles of hiking paths, any of which may be explored alone or with the assistance of a park ranger.
If you are seeking beautiful places to take pictures and create lasting memories, the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is an excellent choice.
Ocean Rider Inc
Ocean Rider Inc., commonly known as Ocean Rider Seahorse Tours, is the only organization in the whole nation that is responsible for the breeding of seahorses, which are considered to be an endangered species.
More than 20,000 animals of various sorts are on show inside the farm since the organization’s mission is to fight against the extinction of these creatures.
This is one of the most enjoyable sites for those who are interested in seahorses to see these magnificent and enchanted animals.
There are tours that are routinely organized at Ocean Rider Inc., and on each one, you will have the opportunity to learn all there is to know about the life cycles of seahorses as well as the efforts that are being taken to protect them.
You are able to get even more personal with the animals by using feeding pools and petting pools.
You’ll also get the opportunity to witness several male seahorses that are pregnant and their offspring.
Despite the fact that it is exceptional and one of a kind, going on an excursion with Ocean Rider Inc. is considered to be one of the less touristy things to do.
Since 1998, this farm, which is run by a family, has specialized in the reproduction of over 30 different kinds of seahorses and seadragons.
You may see tiger-tail seahorses, leafy sea dragons, and a variety of other sea creatures!
Two Step Beach
Two Step Beach, which is located close to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, is a fantastic location for a variety of water-based activities and sightseeing, including the opportunity to watch monk seals, dolphins, and turtles, in addition to a large number of colorful fish.
This beach, which is located on Honaunau Bay and is easily accessible, is considered to be one of the best beaches in the area.
At Two Step Beach, you can surf, swim and play games, but all of the most popular elements are underwater. Colorful coral reefs thrive under waves of turquoise, and all of the best features are down there.
To snorkel in Hawaii, you will need to carry your own equipment or be prepared to purchase some if you run out, but the experience is well worth the investment for those who are interested in the sport.
A little farther on, you’ll also come across the world-famous lava rock pools, which provide diving chances that are nothing short of fantastic.
Atlantis Submarines
Exploring the stunning seas and the many species that they contain is, without a doubt, one of the most entertaining activities that visitors can do in Kona.
After all, that’s what makes Hawaii famous in the first place!
Atlantis Submarines makes it possible for you to achieve just this by transporting you over a breathtaking natural reef that is 25 acres in size as you relax in the air-conditioned luxury of a wonderful underwater vehicle.
At Atlantis Submarines, you will, as the name implies, be riding a submarine for the duration of the 45-minute adventure, which will take place one hundred feet below the surface.
You will have the opportunity to see sharks, colorful fish, stingrays, and turtles, none of which will be harmed by your submarine since it is noiseless and kind to the environment.
The fact that the coral reef you’ll be traveling through is 18,000 years old adds another depth of beauty and amazement to the whole experience, which is already very much its own thing in its own right!
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
Check to visit Kohala Waterfalls Adventure for even more things to do while you’re here.
This touring firm has you covered if you’ve been wondering what to do in Kona if you’re more interested in land-based adventures as opposed to water-based ones.
You will get the opportunity to see all of Kona, Hawaii’s most picturesque areas over the course of eight hours, which is the ideal amount of time for a trip to take this coming weekend.
During your time on the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure, you will have the chance to trek through a private nature reserve, travel off-road in a six-wheel drive, and gain knowledge about the local culture, history, flora, and wildlife.
You will even make a pit break at Hawi, which is a historic town in the area.
Finally, you’ll arrive at the waterfalls that give the tour its name, where you’ll have the opportunity to cool down in the spray of the cascades while swimming. Afterward, you’ll make your way to a panoramic overlook where you’ll have a great lunch to yourself in private.
Start making your plans to visit Kona now.
The beauty and allure of Kona is undeniable, and the city is brimming with exciting destinations that celebrate nature, the sea, art, culture, history, and more.
You’ll need our guide to help you narrow down the selections so that you can construct the ideal schedule for your trip, regardless of who you’re traveling with. There are so many possibilities for things to visit!